What is a DIP Switch?

What is a DIP switch? DIP Switches are manual electric switches that are packaged by group into a standard dual in-line package (DIP). This type of switch is designed to be used on a printed circuit board along with other electronic components to customize the behavior of an electronic device in specific situations. DIP switches are also known as toggle switches, which mean they have two possible positions -- on or off. (Sometimes instead of on and off, you may see the numbers 1 and 0 on the DIP Switch.)

Types of DIP Switches

There are many different kinds of DIP switches and at Future Electronics we stock many of the most common types including rotary, slide, and rocker switches. We also offer a selection of DPDT dipswitches, SPDT dipswitches, low profile dipswitches, miniature dipswitches and micro-switches.

Rotary DIP Switches contain multiple electrical contacts. The way it is used is by rotating the switch to align it with a number printed on the package. These may be large like thumbwheels, or small enough to require a screwdriver.

The slide and rocker types of switches, which are very common, are arrays of simple SPST (single-pole, single-throw) contacts. These can be either set in an on or off position allowing for each switch to have a one-bit binary value. The values of all switches in the DIP package can also be interpreted as one number. For example, seven switches offer 128 combinations, allowing them to select a standard ASCII character. Eight switches offer 256 combinations, which is equivalent to one byte and so on.

It’s really easy to hone in on the electric switch you need using our parametric filters. You can use them to quickly refine your Switch search results by switch operation, circuitry, termination style, actuator style, number of positions and package style.

DIP Switches Packages

DIP switch packages consist of socket pins or mounting leads to provide an electrical path from the switch contacts to the circuit board itself. While circuits can use these electrical contacts directly, it is more common to convert them into low and high signals. It’s important to note, in the case of a dipswitch that a circuit board also needs interface circuitry for the DIP switch to function. This can consist of a series of pull-up or pull-down resistors, a buffer, decode logic, and other components, which we offer at FutureEelctronics.com.

DIP Switches in R&D quantities or production ready packaging

With our state of the art facility in Memphis and FutureElectronics.com, you have the option to order the exact number of dipswitches required for your R&D or electronic project needs without the unnecessary surplus of buying full reels or boxes dipswitches.